Almost anyone who likes to build and make all kinds of homemade products can make a folding bench. You can build according to a ready-made project or make drawings and diagrams of a transforming bench with your own hands. The final result will depend primarily on the correct choice of design, and only then the selection of material and quality of work are important.
Transformers are convenient to use in the countryside due to the small size and weight of the bench
Design options for transformable benches
It is not difficult to choose the appropriate option, since most of the folding benches are very similar to each other in design and operating principle. There are more than enough drawings of a transformer bench available for self-production, so there is plenty to choose from.
Another thing is that not all homemade products are equally good at using in a summer cottage, so it would be right to first understand the structure of the most popular models:
- The most common folding benches are transformers with a metal frame;
- Similar models of “folding beds”, but made of wood. A wooden transforming bench, in its basic dimensions and characteristics, approximately corresponds to metal models;
- Wooden benches are transformers of the original author's design, differing in the type of folding, size and shape;
- Small-sized frame benches of various designs.
The design of such little ones is often copied by developers from classic swing transformers, but there are also original products with unusual designs.
The diagram involves disassembling and assembling the transformer without fasteners
Many summer residents prefer to make such transformable benches with their own hands, photo, for only one reason. Thanks to their well-thought-out design and small size, they fold easily, take up little space and can be transported to the dacha even in a car.
The classic version of a folding transforming bench
The most common are universal models of folding benches with a metal frame. The transformer may look different, but it is based on the same circuit. Formally, such a bench consists of three parts:
- The stationary part is a small bench that always remains in one position, regardless of whether the transformer is unfolded or not;
- The movable part of the bench, when folded, complements the stationary part, increasing its size in width. In the unfolded position it is an independent seating area;
- The back of the bench. With any transformer design, it is always connected by hinges to the moving and stationary parts.
The size of the table with benches, into which the transformer turns when unfolded, is equal to the dimensions of the backrest. Therefore, such schemes in the folded position always have unusually high back support, which only increases the level of comfort for tall people and children.
The design of the bench does not involve the use of clamps or clamps; everything is held under its own weight
Important! All hinge joints are bolted and bushed and no door hinges or hinges are used. This solution increases the rigidity of the structure and makes it possible to build a transformer at the lowest cost.
The step-by-step instructions shown in the photo below will help you figure out how to fold or unfold a transformer bench with your own hands.
Folding diagram - grab the back and seat and pull it towards you
The transformer rotates around the hinge and moves into table position
Elements of a metal structure can be rounded in the form of arches or rectangular. If you wish, you can find your own drawings for a transformable iron bench made in an unusual square style.
The shape of the racks does not affect the performance of the circuit and is determined only by the individual preferences of the future owners. One of the transformer bench models, available for DIY assembly, is shown in the video
Wooden benches - folding beds
Models made from oak or larch wood look more attractive, although the operation scheme is practically no different from their metal counterparts.
Important! The only significant drawback is the impossibility of completely disassembling the wooden transformer.
If a bench on a metal frame can be disassembled into separate parts and assembled in the spring, then wooden furniture will have to be hidden in assembled form in a country house for the winter.
Transformer benches with unusual designs
Folding benches do not have to turn into a structure of two benches and a table. For example, to make your own, you can choose a design for a bench with a reclining backrest. In this case, the transformer is assembled in the form of a set of sections that can easily be converted into a folding table.
Another extremely interesting diagram of a transformer bench is presented below. The dimensions of the furniture do not differ from conventional models, but thanks to the special design of the seat and backrest, the latter can be quite easily hidden in the lower part of the structure.
A very simple shop - the transformer is shown in the photo below.
In terms of its design and operating principle, it resembles a folder or suitcase. Of all the options given, this model is perhaps best suited for working in the country during the summer season.
Manufacturing process
From the prepared laminated chipboard we cut out two parts of the tabletop: one stationary, the other lifting.
Additionally, we cut out the base panel. It will be mounted on the wall, and, in fact, the entire structure will be supported on it. Its dimensions are approximately 20 x 30 cm, but can be larger. It all depends on the size of the table.
We will also need a retractable panel that is attached to the main one and supports the lifting tabletop in the open state. It can be cut in the form of a right triangle from a single piece of chipboard, or it can be assembled from individual slats.
We connect the stationary and lifting parts of the tabletop to each other using a piano hinge. It should look like a book.
Using butterfly loops, we install a triangle-support with an acute downward angle on the mounting base. When folded, the triangle should be parallel to the base, and when unfolded, it should be perpendicular.
We apply the wall panel to its location, level it and securely fasten it.
Using special hooks, we hang the main part of the shelf-tabletop simply on the wall directly above the base.
Ready. To fold the table, simply turn the triangle support to the side and lower the movable part of the tabletop.
What tools and materials will be needed
For the manufacture of transformers, a square or round water pipe, wooden slats, timber, board, self-tapping screws and furniture bolts are traditionally used. To work with the material you will need:
- Angle grinder with cutting wheel for metal;
- Welding machine;
- Pipe bending device or machine;
- Marking tool.
If the transformer bench is planned to be made from wooden slats or timber, then you will additionally need to purchase a screwdriver and a sander with a sanding belt.
Most of the work on making a transformable bench will have to be done in a home workshop or garage. Regardless of the design scheme, the bench parts are made separately, welded or bent on a pipe bending machine, painted and transported to the assembly site at the dacha.
Tables for picnics
Such designs are light and elegant. They are small in size and easy to fold when folded.
Chipboard sheets, the thickness of which can be one or one and a half centimeters no more, will be used for production. An aluminum pipe is used for the legs. The supports from an unusable folding bed will be quite useful for this. Only they will need to be raised to a certain height by extending them with a pipe.
The tools for work will be:
- Electric jigsaw;
- Hacksaw for working with wood;
- Drill;
- Screwdriver with a set of screwdrivers;
- For cutting aluminum - scissors.
A suitable drawing can be found on the appropriate website and used with the necessary adjustments. The usual dimensions for a table top are seventy by eighty centimeters, and the total height is up to fifty centimeters.
Drawings, dimensions with descriptions and assembly diagrams of the transforming bench
At first glance, the structure of the bench seems so complicated that to assemble the furniture you must use drawings and a detailing diagram. Formally, this is true. If you make a transformable iron bench with your own hands in a private house, then the drawings can be successfully replaced with several sketches. It’s another matter if the parts for making the bench have to be ordered from a locksmith workshop. In this case, it will not be easy to assemble a transformer bench without details, drawings and dimensions.
Drawings of the most successful model of a transformable metal bench for a summer residence
According to the scheme, this design is no different from the rectangular options, but there are practically no welded joints, which means that most of the parts can be made using a homemade method. You can make drawings of a transformable bench from a rounded profile pipe yourself or use the bench dimensions given below.
Despite its decent size, this transformer circuit is rightly considered one of the most reliable and safe to use.
The only exceptions are the arches of the right bench and the base of the backrest. Additional bushings will need to be welded to the arcs to install the bolted connection. Few people pay attention in the drawings of a transformer - a bench made of a square pipe - to the presence of additional welded elements - bushings. Most people make the grave mistake of trying to drill holes directly into a square pipe. Due to the small cross-sectional size of the material, this is strictly forbidden, otherwise the profile may burst under load. If it is impossible to weld the bushings, for example, there is no welding, then it is better to find drawings of a transformer on a round pipe.
The table, also known as the back of the transformer, is assembled in a frame made of a metal profile, therefore, despite its small size, the strength of the tabletop is quite large.
Important! Unlike other models of benches, the size of which rarely exceeds 150 cm in length, in this scheme it is 180 cm, so vertical supports made of a round pipe are used.
This means that the transformer can withstand a significantly greater load than models with rectangular supports.
Drawings of a transformable garden bench made of wood
Building a bench out of wood may seem more complicated, but this is not entirely true. If you take a closer look at the drawing and detailing below, it turns out that the structure is simply planned out of more elements.
This is what a drawing of a classic transformer looks like - a bench made of wooden slats.
Diagram of a transformer with an attached bench. The dimensions of the structure can be changed, since the seat width of 183 mm is not enough for an adult
In fact, the most difficult stage is assembling the frame of the benches; it has to be done according to the details given below.
It is best to press steel bushings at the hinge points, and a bolt with a nut will be used as a rotary axis.
Recommendations for selection
Choosing a kitchen is a very important and pressing issue for the housewife. Everything should be convenient and functional. In the case of a small kitchen, the situation is complicated by space. It is important that the kitchen does not look cluttered. In this case, tips on choosing a folding headset will come in handy.
- To save space, you can use built-in household appliances. If the housewife cooks often, then she should take a good stove of the right size. If cooking occurs infrequently or in small quantities, then it makes sense to pay attention to hobs with two burners.
- If the kitchen has a clear place for a dining area, then it is better to choose a folding table. If the meal is planned somewhere in the middle of the kitchen, then you should choose a table-book or a folding transformer.
- You can completely abandon the usual table. An excellent alternative is a built-in countertop and two stools in the kitchen unit. This can be done when purchasing custom-made furniture.
A modular sofa with a sleeping place is the best solution for a small kitchen-living room. During the daytime, you can move the modules apart and use them as chairs.
How to make a transforming bench from a profile pipe with your own hands
To assemble the best model of a folding bench, you will need the following set of parts:
- Two V-shaped swivel posts;
- A pair of central supports, rolled in the form of a semicircle with an additional welded joint and fastening under the backrest;
- Two L-shaped stands for assembling the back of the transformer. The vertical dimension determines the width of the folding table;
- Two sections of profile pipe to fit the overall width of the bench; they will be used to form the frame of the tabletop;
- A pair of rectangular frames, from which the bases for two benches will be made;
- Short sections of pipes, from which vertical supports for benches will be made;
- Wooden slats for lining table tops and transformable benches.
This set can be easily transported by car to a dacha or country house. In this case, a drawing is not required for assembly, since all elements of the transformer are easily identified without additional detail.
Important! The transformer bench is assembled using bolted connections, so you only need a pair of keys and a screwdriver to operate it. The wooden cladding is secured with self-tapping screws.
The general view of the transformer bench is shown in the photo below.
Assembling the posts and base of the bench
First of all, we assemble the stationary part of the bench - the transformer. To do this, we bolt half-arch supports to the rectangular frame on both sides. It is clear that the length of the bolts must be at least 60 mm.
Next, we attach the L-shaped elements of the back frame to the bushings welded on the half-arches.
The next step is to secure the V-shaped elements of the folding bench. The dimensions and curvature of the arc of the racks are not particularly important; the main requirement for the drawing is that all three elements must be located in the same plane.
We assemble the back and sew on the facing
To form the frame of the future tabletop, we sew horizontal crossbars from a rectangular profile in the lower and upper parts of the L-shaped sidewalls.
We fill the back space with wooden slats, everything as per the drawing. The dimensions and material of the cladding can be chosen arbitrarily; plastic or OSB can be used.
Next, we attach the second rectangular frame to the V-shaped elements. Its dimensions are similar to those of a stationary bench.
All that remains is to unfold the transforming bench, adjust and adjust the dimensions and gaps in the joints, and sew up the horizontal surfaces of the benches with a wooden board or timber.
Smart furniture
Innovative interior design models, made in different styles, are considered not only a successful addition to the decor. Folding furniture simplifies life, contributing to a radical transformation of space.
An integral part of the interior of small-sized apartments has become a console coffee table that transforms into a dining table for 12 people.
Rotary racks equipped with front and rear functionality deserve special attention. They work on the principle of a fairy-tale hut on chicken legs, and are considered an ideal element of space zoning.
As a rule, such rotating cabinets are equipped with a TV on the front side, protected from the rear by shelves or a built-in mirrored dressing table. The base of the rotating modules is a chest of drawers, which hides in the depths a retractable table on wheels, inside of which a bed can be hidden.
The modified transformable desk bed, in addition to the sleeping area, includes a home office area and is located on only two squares of usable area of the apartment. To extend the bed, the tabletop is moved up and tilted to the side, forming the head of the bed.
How to make a transforming bench with a canopy
The easiest way is to use a ready-made bench design with arched posts. One of the options for building a canopy over a bench - a transformer - is shown in the photo below.
In general, a frame made of rectangular or round pipe is sufficiently rigid to support the weight of the canopy and posts.
The frame base of the canopy will be assembled from three half-arcs, bent on a pipe bending machine from blanks measuring 150 cm. The shape and curvature can be chosen arbitrarily. From this material you will need to cut the rear straight pillars and the front arc ones.
All four elements are welded using a welding inverter to the lower arched supports and the L-shaped sides of the backrest. The assembly can be done without a drawing; it is important that the vertical projection of the line of the center of gravity of the visor is in the same plane with the middle point of the bench. Otherwise, the transformer may tip over when unfolding.
Tasks
The furniture industry of domestic and imported origin deals with the problem of spaciousness, producing original kitchens with retractable and sliding structures, which are called transformable kitchen furniture. The essence of such furniture comes down to the fact that not all household items are used constantly. Some of them can be folded compactly and unfolded when the need arises for their use. Through the use of transformers, several problems are solved:
- space is saved;
- ergonomics improves;
- a certain design style is created;
- a beautiful view and comfort are formed.
We bring to your attention some options for transformable furniture in photo 1. We will be glad if they help you update the interior of your small kitchen.
How to make a transforming bench-table from wood with your own hands
First of all, you will need to make two identical benches with a trapezoidal structure of the legs. At the top of each bench, additional bars are sewn on both sides, the size of which is equal to the length of the lower crossbar. In order not to make mistakes in the assembly, you can use the drawing; the main thing is not to rush to drill holes for the hinges. Typically, bushings at the rotation points are installed after the final mutual adjustment of the dimensions of all elements of the transformer.
The next step is to make the tabletop, its dimensions are chosen as the size of the bench in width plus twice the thickness of the timber, from which a large rail and a triangle are cut - the support. The size can be selected according to the drawing or the length can be adjusted during the assembly process.
Other tips
The living room with the kitchen can be combined and decorated with various shortcomings
It is important to calculate and anticipate everything in advance. Decorators and craftsmen share tips that will help avoid problems during repairs and furnishings:
The result depends on how detailed the project is drawn up. Oddly enough, it is worth taking into account the growth of loved ones and relatives. It is also recommended to calculate the approximate number of possible guests. You can get rid of food smells by installing a strong hood or ventilation system.
Small models are more suitable for housewives who do little cooking. If you plan to have a sleeping place in the living room, then it is important that the ringing of appliances and other kitchen utensils is not heard. Silent dishwashers and other appliances will come in handy.
In addition, you can install a sliding door and install a soundproof partition. If there is sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation, the owners hang thick curtains made of light-proof fabric. If household appliances do not match the direction of the interior, they are hidden behind furniture or put away in kitchen cabinets. When installing luminaires and lamps, they are guided by several criteria
It is important that the light falls evenly throughout the entire space. Especially bright lighting is preferable in the kitchen area and where the dining table is installed
In the living room, designers create a subdued atmosphere using wall sconces and table lamps. Multi-level stretch ceilings with LED strip also look good in this room. Moisture-resistant finishing materials are more durable and easy to clean. Thus, they retain their appearance for a long time. The kitchen combined with the living room combines:
- personal tastes of the owners;
- reliable finishing materials;
- current design ideas;
- convenience;
- trends. The best photos of kitchen living room design
How to make a transforming chair-bench for a gardener with your own hands
The simplest transformer, designed for one person, can be made from a profile pipe and a wooden slat. One of the options for such chairs is presented below.
The dimensions of the pipe are 25x25 mm; when unfolded, the circuit may be unstable
The design is based on a metal frame made of a 25x25 mm profile pipe. You can make it yourself or order it from welders according to the drawing.
The trick to this scheme is the use of folding metal frames, for which corresponding grooves are provided in the vertical posts of the chair.
The tabletop and seat can be made from slats and plywood.
Important! The only inconvenience is the incorrect location of the center of gravity of the structure.
A child can sit on such a bench without risk, but for adults it will be necessary to assemble a structure from two transformers.
Folding book table
In many families, a large dining table is not needed all year round. However, its presence can help out if guests arrive. The sliding mechanism is ideally suited for these purposes; a modest wooden table equipped with it stands discreetly in the corner, performing auxiliary functions. But when his time comes, he stands in the center of the apartment.
It is proposed to make a frame furniture mechanism with lowering halves of the lid. Materials you will need:
- planed bars 20x50 mm;
- plywood or thin 10 mm planks (for boxes);
- furniture board: chipboard, laminated chipboard or MDF (on the lid).
Fig.1. Drawings of a folding table-book: 1 – driving frame; 2 – rotating frame; 3- folding plane; 4 – drawer; 5 – assembly of the side part of the main frame (option B); 6 – medium narrow chipboard tabletop option B
Fig.2. Table assembly diagram: 2 – elements of the rotating frame; 3- folding plane; 4 – drawer; 5 – driving frame
Mechanism for assembling the table-book:
- The table legs are sawn off to the required length.
- Markings are applied to them.
- According to the markings, grooves are hollowed out for the longitudinal drawers (transverse slats connecting the table legs).
Note! Grooves for the lower slats can be made at an arbitrary height, and when hollowing out the upper slats, take into account the height of the drawer.
- The longitudinal drawers are sawed off to length.
- Single spikes are filed down at their ends.
- Glue the side frames (2 pieces), after checking the accuracy of the assembly with a square.
- While the side frames are drying, make 2 supports for the side covers of the table. They are also of frame construction (in Fig. 1 and 2 - No. 5).
Installation of a table-book
The length of the support legs corresponds to the height of the table legs. The size of the other vertical post is equivalent to the distance between the outer edges of the longitudinal frames. And in order for the supporting support in the folded position not to look beyond the table, the width of the support should be equal to half the length of the table sides.
Mechanism for assembling the table-book (continued):
- On the bars intended for support, it’s time to make single through and blind tenon joints.
- The bars are connected with glue.
- In the dried sidewalls, saw down and select recesses for attaching short transverse drawers (No. 2 in the diagram).
- The sides with these short drawers are connected with glue and screws.
- Guide rails are attached to the inside of the upper longitudinal drawers to move the drawers (No. 4 in the diagram).
- The side walls of the drawers (cabinets) are made of plywood or thin 10 mm boards.
- The front wall of the cabinet should be made of a thicker board.
- Quarters are cut along the edges of these boards to attach the sides of the box.
- All elements of the cabinets are held together with glue and screws.
- The bottom of the cabinets (drawers) is cut from thin plywood or fiberboard.
- Note! A special feature of the design is that the front wall of the drawer extends inside the legs. This means that the front plane of the wall and the edges of the legs are flush. And in order to achieve this, clamps are attached to the guide rails and upper longitudinal drawers, which do not allow the drawer to move further than necessary (No. 3 in the diagram).
- Table tops are cut from chipboard, laminated chipboard or MDF. Begin work by marking and cutting out the middle cover.
- Note! The edges of the middle cover above the table structure will protrude 20-25 mm. This will allow the support support to be hidden under the lowered half of the lid.
- The middle cover is secured with four metal corners (No. 3 in the diagram), screwed with screws from the inside of the upper transverse frames.
- The side covers are attached to the middle one with a piano loop. It is screwed on from the bottom with screws.
- Note! If you turn the furniture structure over, connect all the lids and only then start tightening the hinges, it will be more convenient to work.
Design options
Despite the fact that almost all models of transformers use the same scheme, almost all home-made workers try to design a folding bench in their own way, to make its design more individual and attractive.
To the dacha
Most often, picnics, hearty lunches, and barbecues are organized at the dacha, so the transforming table will be an indispensable assistant for those who like to eat well.
The furniture can be arranged both for a large feast and for modest evening tea parties, for example.
Models
Models are classified according to different parameters.
Depending on the shape
An important criterion when purchasing a folding table is its shape.
- Square ones are optimal for a small family of three.
- The rectangular shape is the most convenient because it is spacious and can be designed for a larger number of people. Depending on the size of the room, such a table can be placed either along the wall or across it.
- The round table is the least popular, but its originality allows it to look great in a classic dining area.
- A semicircular tabletop is more compact than a round one, but is not practical. Therefore, it is often used in loggias and balconies.
Depending on the type of construction
- The mobile folding model differs from the previous one in its mobility. Guides located on the wall allow the tabletop to move along it. A great option for a non-standard layout. As a rule, the structure is equipped with additional leg clamps that provide support and stability in a stationary position.
- Folding bar counter. Often used by designers in modern interiors. It is a long narrow tabletop, the mount of which is built into the wall. The products have an unusual design, for example, glass or mirror inserts make them luxurious. The models are perfect for long kitchens. Since the bar counter is mounted high, it is usually equipped with high stools.
- The suspended version is characterized by the absence of legs. It saves space as much as possible, similar in design to a window sill. Manufacturers produce options with sidewalls.
- A folding table is the simplest option. It differs from a transformer in the absence of additional features. The main difference from all other models is that it does not fold completely to a vertical state, and therefore, when folded, it looks like a cabinet. This design feature is used for storing things.
Work planning
First you need to decide what design the table will need. For example, an ordinary coffee table does not require specific parts, except for the mechanism, furniture corners and other fasteners. If you plan to make several storage boxes, you need to think about what kind of guides and handles will be used.
The dimensions of the future table are determined based on the dimensions of the room. Too small furniture in the room will look ridiculous, large furniture will clog up the entire space, leaving little room for living.
You can draw such a drawing manually, or you can turn to technology and make sketches in a special program for designers. Many have free trial versions, this will be enough for a simple drawing.
What is necessary
Necessary tools for assembling furniture
To successfully assemble the transformer you will need:
- Phillips screwdriver or screwdriver with attachments;
- furniture hammer;
- fasteners and accessories included in the delivery kit.
Detailing the table frame and its legs
Box with fittings and fastenings
Despite the many offers on the furniture market, for most manufacturers the process consists of the following steps:
Housing assembly
Assembling the corner legs of our table
All legs for the transforming table are assembled
Corner legs of two halves are connected with screws or eccentrics. In the same way, a body is assembled from long and short drawers.
Housing assembly diagram
Detailed case assembly process
Screw the legs to the body according to the instructions
IMPORTANT! Special holes are made on the legs and drawers for simultaneous installation of the lift and screed of the entire structure. Check after assembly if they match
Assembled base with legs
Nail the plastic foot pads to the bottom ends of the legs. At the upper ends of the drawers, install shock absorbers to soften the impact of the tabletop when folding it.
We nail heel pads to the legs
Installation of the lifting mechanism
Installation diagram of the lifting mechanism
Bring the lift into working position. For this:
- hook the spring with one end to the hole inside the lift;
- insert a pin threaded into the second end of the spring into the groove located on the opposite side;
Spring in working order, attached to the mechanism - Screw the lifters to the long and then to the short drawers.
Fixed springs for operation of the transforming table mechanism
The mechanism is in a calm, unexpanded state
IMPORTANT! The legs of the holders designed for a folding tabletop are higher than those made for the underframe. Mechanism for bringing the table to the upper position
Mechanism for bringing the table to the upper position
Installation of countertops and underframes
Mounting a smaller part of the countertop
Installing the base for a large part of the tabletop
Screw the bottom flap of the book-table top and the base to the holder platforms. Install shock absorbers on the outside of the tabletop to absorb shock when unfolding the tabletop. Using an outside-in motion, fold the lift legs into the box. It will be covered by the bottom of the tabletop.
Fix the upper movable part of the tabletop
Place the second half on top so that the end holes for the hidden hinges are on one side, and their center-to-center distance is minimal (about 14 mm). Carefully insert the hinges and secure with screws.
Hidden hinges to secure the table when assembled
The table you assemble will last a long time. Do not forget to tighten its fastening joints once a year, clean the surface with a dry soft cloth or a special furniture polish.
Coffee version or folded table
The process of transforming a table from a coffee table to a table for receiving guests
Dining option or unfolded table
